Description:

Ancient Near East, Byzantine period, ca. 6th to 7th century CE. An opulent silver ring featuring a flattened circular bezel engraved with the Chi Rho monogram. Consisting of the first two letters of the Greek word for Christ – Chi (X) and Rho (P), the Chi-Rho symbol was used by early Christians and is attributed to the Roman Emperor Constantine, who even employed it as a military symbol. The prominent bezel is set on a thick band adorned with decorative incised striations and impressions. Size of ring: 0.9" L x 0.8" W (2.3 cm x 2 cm); US ring size: 6; silver quality: 93.39%; weight: 9.1 grams

After Constantine, the Chi-Rho became part of the official imperial insignia. Archaeologists have uncovered evidence demonstrating that the Chi-Rho was emblazoned on the helmets of some Late Roman soldiers. Coins and medallions minted during Emperor Constantine's reign also bore the Chi-Rho. By the year 350, the Chi-Rho began to be used on Christian sarcophagi and frescoes. The usurper Magnentius appears to have been the first to use the Chi-Rho monogram flanked by Alpha and Omega, on the reverse of some coins minted in 353.

Provenance: private London, UK collection, acquired in Vienna, Austria, before 2000

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#189671

  • Condition: Some light nicks and abrasions to surface as shown, all commensurate with age. Otherwise, intact, excellent, and wearable with patina to surface. Nicely preserved engraving.

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November 15, 2024 8:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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